At a ceremony attended by Chinese and Russian dignitaries, Kim Jong Un asserts the ruling party’s flawless 80-year legacy.
During a grand event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Workers’ Party of Korea, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un proclaimed the nation’s rising influence on the world stage and vowed to transform the country into a prosperous socialist utopia, as reported by state media.
Speaking at Pyongyang’s May Day Stadium on Thursday, Kim emphasized that throughout its eight decades, the party has never faltered or erred, steering the nation forward through the collective wisdom and resilience of its people, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Friday.
“We now present ourselves to the global community as an indomitable people, capable of overcoming any challenge and achieving every great goal,” Kim declared, KCNA noted.
Historically, North Korea has remained one of the world’s most secluded and self-reliant countries, grappling with economic hardships while simultaneously advancing its nuclear arsenal.
This celebration follows Kim’s recent trip to Beijing, where he joined Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at a large-scale military parade marking China’s 80th anniversary of victory in World War II-his debut on the international diplomatic front.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump insinuated that the gathering of Russian, Chinese, and North Korean leaders in Beijing signaled a covert alliance against the United States, remarking that such a scenario was previously unimaginable.
On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump addressed Xi Jinping, stating, “Please extend my warm regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un as you plot against the United States of America.”
KCNA did not specify the foreign attendees at Thursday’s festivities; however, state media had earlier confirmed the presence of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Vietnamese official To Lam, and Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev in Pyongyang for the anniversary.
The stadium hosted elaborate mass games and artistic performances, with Kim and his guests receiving enthusiastic cheers from the assembled crowd that “illuminated the night sky over the capital,” KCNA reported.
Jack Barton of Al Jazeera, reporting from Seoul, cited a South Korean government advisor who remarked that North Korea “is no longer the most isolated nation globally.”
“The underlying message is that Kim has solidified his domestic authority and is increasingly asserting influence internationally,” Barton added.
Kim asserts strength against the US and pledges a ‘socialist utopia’
Kim highlighted North Korea’s dual focus on advancing its nuclear capabilities alongside economic development as a response to “escalating nuclear threats from US imperialists,” according to state reports.
“Our party and government continue to confront our adversaries’ intense political and military pressures by adopting resolute policies, adhering to unwavering principles, and implementing bold, steadfast countermeasures,” Kim stated.
“These efforts are significantly bolstering the progressive alliance opposing war and domination.”
In a recent statement, Kim indicated openness to dialogue with the United States, provided Washington abandons its demand for complete denuclearization.
“If the US relinquishes its unrealistic fixation on our denuclearization, acknowledges the facts, and seeks genuine peaceful coexistence, there is no obstacle to sitting down for talks,” Kim remarked in late September.
On Friday, Kim expressed optimism about overcoming current challenges and dramatically enhancing the economy soon. “I am determined to transform this nation into a wealthier, more beautiful land and the world’s premier socialist paradise,” he affirmed.
Additionally, Kim held discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, lauding the enduring “friendly and cooperative ties” between their countries.
Kim commended Li’s visit as a demonstration of “steadfast support and special camaraderie toward the Workers’ Party of Korea, the government, and the people of the DPRK,” praising Beijing’s commitment to preserving and deepening the traditional DPRK-China friendship, KCNA reported.